Triple eventing Olympic gold medallist Andrew Hoy has opened his stables up to a local Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) group.
The Australian is hosting events and regular riding sessions at his Somerby yard.
Earlier this year Andrew hosted the RDA Countryside Challenge regional qualifiers at his Leicestershire training facility.
He said watching the Mount Group RDA’s riding activities makes him “really appreciate what I have.”
“There is a gentleman at Mount Group who was just 30 when he had a stroke. He is married with a young child. It puts things into perspective,” added Andrew.
Mount Group RDA meets at Somerby several times a week and Andrew said it helps his horses get used to “the laughter and liveliness” of having children around.
“It’s wonderful that I can contribute to that and give back something I take for granted,” he said.
One of the group’s riders now volunteers at Andrew’s eventing yard.
“Christine is a really nice rider and the team here are helping her prepare for the RDA gold proficiency test in horsecare,” he said.
All the volunteers and riders at Mount RDA said they were “hugely grateful for Andrew’s support.”
Chairman Pat Bishop added: “We are looking forward to working together for many years to come.”
For more information visit: www.rda.org.uk
